NJ Macpherson School junior kindergarten teacher Karen Faulkner and École Allain St-Cyr’s Christine Ratel are among 15 recipients of this year’s Prime Minister’s Award for Excellence in Early Childhood Education.
The YK1 school district publicized Faulkner’s award in a news release this week. Ratel is included in a list published on the federal government’s website.
“In Ms Christine’s class, each child is treated in a unique and caring way. Our daughter feels safe, appreciated and challenged every day,” a parent of an École Allain St-Cyr student is quoted as saying.
Ratel, a pre-kindergarten teacher for nearly 10 years according to her award biography, “has created a learning environment that combines exploration, creativity and cultural roots,” her nomination reads.
“Her immersive projects, original educational initiatives and constant openness to families have made her a key figure in early childhood education in her community.”
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Faulkner has been teaching at the YK1 school district since 2017 and more broadly for 25 years.
She is one of only five people on this year’s awards list to also receive a certificate of excellence, according to YK1.
In a press release, YK1 said she “brings lessons to life through student-driven research using art, storytelling, and science.”
“The award also highlights Karen’s commitment to nurturing the whole child – supporting social, emotional, and academic development while creating a safe and inclusive space for every learner,” YK1 stated.
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“Her work embodies YK1’s belief that the early years are critical in setting children up for future success.”
At NJ Macpherson on Thursday, students in Abby David’s Grade 5 class were preparing to tape their next edition of Nǫgèe News when the news of Faulkner’s award broke.
Brought onto the set and asked how she felt to get the award, Faulkner said: “I was so excited but to be honest, I was really overwhelmed. It was such a huge honour.”
YK1’s press release quoted an unnamed parent saying: “The love and impact of teachers like Karen are boundless.
“I believe teachers like her help students to become wonderful citizens of humanity, and this will extend to every place and person these children meet.”
The teachers are expected to receive their awards at a ceremony in Ottawa later this year.
Update: Friday, October 10 – 10:35 MT. We’ve updated this report since becoming aware that not one but two Yellowknife teachers received this recognition this year.
